Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

This regular meeting of the Boca Raton CRA convened at 1:30 PM on September 8, 2025, under Chair Marc Wigder. The board approved two resolutions: one updating the urban design review deposit fee schedule, and another amending the Amended Downtown Plan to update policies and reallocate project funds. Chair Wigder also delivered a report on the CRA's future, emphasizing the need for continued planning and budgeting. Public Comments & Testimony - John Pearlman (498 NE A Street) commented on Resolution 2025-05-CRA, noting that a prior August 25 CRA presentation revealed a 40-fold increase in capital outlay from 2024 to 2026 (from $1 million to over $40 million) and that $80-90 million in funds are being appropriated over three years. He requested a detailed list of all project expenses for fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026, and noted that the Historic Preservation Board had designated the site of the Singing Pines building as historic, potentially conflicting with the proposed relocation. Staff committed to providing the requested information. Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-04-CRA – Fee Schedule Amendment: Arlene Cheese Nelson (CRA Planning Analyst) presented. The resolution changes the pre-permit urban design review deposit from a flat $2,500 to a tiered fee: $500 for projects valued up to $500,000, and $1,000 for projects over $500,000. This was in response to applicant feedback about the high deposit for small projects. The effective date is October 1, 2025. Commissioner Thompson asked about staff time for refunds; staff confirmed the current refund process is lengthy. The board voted unanimously to adopt. - Resolution 2025-05-CRA – Downtown Plan Amendments: Ms. Nelson presented. The resolution updates the Amended Downtown Plan to: revise the Marketing Policy, add a Community Policing Policy, update Section XI (Planned Services and Infrastructure) by removing completed projects (downtown walkability enhancements, metered parking, Meisner Park Amphitheater roof replacement), adding a new project for all Meisner Park Amphitheater improvements, adding a project for relocation of a historic public building, and removing fiscal year references from each project. The companion ordinance (No. 5748) was introduced at the August 26 City Council meeting and will be heard on September 9. Chair Wigder clarified that TIF funds are reserved but can be reallocated through future plan amendments and budgeting. Commissioner Thompson asked about how changes would be handled if the Singing Pines building relocation is no longer needed; staff responded that a plan amendment would be required. - Chair’s Report: Chair Wigder gave an extensive overview of the CRA’s role, noting its termination in approximately 16 years (around 2042). He highlighted the risk of state legislation to dissolve CRAs early, which could redirect TIF funds to the county. He stressed the need for a holistic downtown plan update, including public input, and mentioned ongoing projects (Alta Downtown Study, quick builds on Meisner Boulevard and Palmetto Park Road, downtown Boca Connect, and autonomous vehicle testing). He also noted that the city does not control all roads within its boundaries, requiring advocacy at county and state levels. Commissioner Drucker raised the timing concern of potential CRA bills in the upcoming legislative session, suggesting they may need to act quickly. Commissioner Nachlas emphasized early public input. Key Outcomes - Adoption of Resolution 2025-04-CRA (fee schedule update): Motion by Commissioner Thompson, second by Commissioner Drucker. Vote: 5-0 (all present). Effective October 1, 2025. - Adoption of Resolution 2025-05-CRA (downtown plan amendments): Motion by Chair Wigder, second by Commissioner Drucker. Vote: 5-0. The companion ordinance will be considered by City Council on September 9, 2025. - Staff committed to provide a detailed list of all CRA project expenses for fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026, as requested by John Pearlman.

On Monday, September 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM, the Boca Raton City Council held a tentative budget hearing for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The Council adopted a balanced budget with a slight decrease in the millage rate, maintained fire assessment fees, and approved an updated user fee schedule with modifications to library overdue fines. All votes were unanimous (5-0). The meeting adjourned at 6:51 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided oral comments during the public hearing portions of the meeting. Discussion Items - Presentation on Tentative Budget & Proposed Millage Rates: Sharon McGuire (OMB Director) presented a balanced general fund budget with $9.5 million in reductions achieved by trimming line-item spending based on historical trends, without cutting services. The proposed millage rate is 3.6649 mills, down from 3.6734, a reduction of 0.0085 mills. The rolled-back rate is 3.4931 mills; the proposed rate exceeds it by 4.42%. The city's total assessed valuation reached $40 billion, a 7.5% increase. New construction added $700 million in value. The presentation also highlighted that the city's tax rate remains the lowest among full-service neighboring cities. The fire assessment fee for residential properties stays at $155, and commercial/industrial rates remain unchanged. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP): The six-year CIP includes approximately 152 projects totaling $1.2 billion. Key projects for FY 2025-2026 include $10 million for the police department headquarters (design/engineering) and infrastructure improvements. The CIP is funded through multiple sources (CRA, water/sewer funds, grants, bond proceeds). Councilmember Wigder noted that the Transit-Oriented Community (TOC) redevelopment downtown line item is a placeholder that may be adjusted pending project developments. - User Fee Schedule (Resolution 133-2025): Jean-Michel No (Internal Audit & Compliance Supervisor) presented proposed changes effective October 1, 2025. Departments reviewed fees as part of budgeting. Key changes include: increasing cemetery, mausoleum, water/sewer/stormwater fees by 3.1% CPI; adding fees for affordable housing compliance monitoring; increasing public notice processing fees; modifying recreational fees (ball field rentals, camp fees); adding a flat $75 fee for life safety parking violations (e.g., parking on sidewalks/bike lanes). The library proposed eliminating per-day overdue fines and instead billing for replacement cost after a five-month grace period, with refund if items are returned in good condition. - Library Overdue Fine Policy Amendment: Mayor Singer expressed concern about the immediate implementation of the new lost-item billing policy. Council agreed to modify the policy: a 30-day grace period after the end of the applicable renewal period will apply before billing for lost materials. This amendment was incorporated into the resolution. Key Outcomes - Resolution 130-2025 (Proposed Millage Rates): Adopted 5-0. The proposed millage rates are 3.6476 mills for operations and 0.0173 mills for debt service, totaling 3.6649 mills. The percentage increase over the rolled-back rate is 4.42%. - Resolution 131-2025 (Tentative Budget): Adopted 5-0. The tentative budget for FY 2025-2026 includes $9.5 million in line-item reductions, zero planned drawdown of fund balance, and no increase in the millage rate. - Resolution 132-2025 (Fire Services Assessments): Adopted 5-0. The fire assessment rates remain unchanged: $155 per residential property, with commercial and industrial rates maintained at prior levels. - Resolution 133-2025 (User Fee Schedule): Adopted 5-0, with the amendment to the library overdue fine policy as described. The amended schedule includes a 30-day grace period before billing for lost materials. The full fee schedule will be posted on the city's website. - Next Meeting: The final budget hearing is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the same location.

The Planning and Zoning Board met on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The board considered three major items: a mixed-use amendment for the Bocora Residential Center (including a conditional use for a school), a site plan amendment with parking reduction for the TR Danburg Boca retail development, and a city-initiated text amendment to the Commercial Industrial Multifamily Development (CIMD) ordinance. All items were approved by unanimous 7-0 votes. Public speakers raised concerns about traffic, project notice, and the direction of development policy. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Avenue) spoke against the Bocora Residential Center, arguing the project was improperly noticed, that the CIMD overlay should not apply due to lack of unity of title, and that the fitness center would not function as a genuine public gym. He also criticized the school conditional use. Later, on the TR Danburg project, he expressed strong support, calling it "so overdue, so needed" and noting it would reduce food delivery trips. On the CIMD text amendment, he accused the board and staff of "bending over to developers" and weakening the original intent of the ordinance. - John Pearlman (498 Northeast A Street) opposed the CIMD text amendment, arguing it would allow developers to avoid building on-site retail and restaurant uses, thereby undermining the commercial-industrial purpose of the CIMD overlay and encouraging standard residential development across the city. - David Millage (14 Southeast 4th Street) spoke in favor of the CIMD text amendment, stating it merely fixes a drafting glitch and would still require 25,000 square feet of non-residential uses with at least 10,000 square feet of retail/restaurant, either on-site or nearby, without giving developers additional entitlements. Discussion Items - Bocora Residential Center (Items 5.A.i & 5.A.ii) – The board held a combined public hearing on two resolutions: (1) a Planned Mobility Development (PMD) amendment to add 21 residential units (total 298) via a CIMD overlay, including four affordable units (19% of the CIMD units), a 2,086-square-foot public fitness center, and an increase in parking structure height; and (2) a conditional use approval for a 2,000-square-foot micro‑hybrid school (IXEED Academy) within an existing office building. Staff supported approval with conditions, including that the fitness center be operated by a distinct commercial entity. The applicant’s attorney, Ellie Zacharitis, explained the school component was needed to allow state vouchers. Board members questioned the adequacy of the fitness center as a retail use and traffic impacts at the Congress Avenue/65th Street intersection. Opponent Jonathan Unjin argued the project was improperly noticed and that the parking garage access would create conflicts. The board approved both items 7-0. - TR Danburg Boca (Item 5.B) – A site plan amendment to construct two one‑story retail/restaurant buildings totaling 10,505 square feet with a single drive‑through operation (corrected from two), plus a technical deviation to reduce parking from 91 to 64 spaces. Staff recommended approval, citing the mixed‑use nature of the Danburg PMD, existing shuttle connections, and a $17,000 contribution to the city’s shuttle program. Public speaker Jonathan Unjin voiced strong support. The board unanimously approved the amendment. - CIMD Text Amendment (Item 7.A) – An ordinance to amend Section 28-1644 of the city code to allow CIMD projects to satisfy the non‑residential use requirement through a combination of on‑site and off‑site non‑residential uses, provided the total is at least 25,000 square feet (including 10,000 square feet of retail/restaurant/services). The amendment also corrects a scrivener’s error. Senior Planner Peter Begovich explained the change fixes a glitch that prevented mixed on‑site/off‑site compliance, which was the original intent. Board members noted the amendment would encourage more CIMD development and increase on‑site retail in areas lacking it. Public critics argued it weakened the ordinance. The board voted 7-0 to recommend approval to the City Council. Key Outcomes - Bocora Residential Center – PMD/CIMD Amendment (5.A.i): Approved 7-0 (motion by Sevell, second by Mitchell). The resolution will be forwarded to the City Council as a recommendation. - Bocora Residential Center – Conditional Use for School (5.A.ii): Approved 7-0 (motion by Mitchell, second by Dornblaser). - TR Danburg Boca Site Plan Amendment (5.B): Approved 7-0 (motion by Dornblaser, second by Mitchell). - CIMD Text Amendment (7.A): Approved 7-0 (motion by Mitchell, second by Morgan). The ordinance will go to the City Council for final adoption. - Next Meeting: The board noted a special meeting on September 24, 2025, to consider items related to the Downtown Campus Master Plan.

The Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a presentation from State Senator Tina Polsky, board appointments, approval of the consent agenda, and a lengthy public hearing and discussion on the proposed Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity. The council also approved several quasi-judicial items and a sign plan appeal. The meeting extended past 11:00 PM with a motion to extend. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 14, 2025 workshop, July 15, 2025 regular meeting, and August 12, 2025 special meeting. - Appointed Jeff Conley and Benjamin Schreier to the Historic Preservation Board, Colby Bernardo to the Permitting and Construction Review Board, and deferred the Sustainability Advisory Board appointment. - Approved the consent agenda as amended, including resolutions for tree trimming, vehicle repairs, corrosion control, incentive agreements, right-of-way agreements, beach funding, lift station cost sharing, traffic signal replacements, playground construction, pump repair services, mutual aid agreement, dredge maintenance, technology platform access, police foundation donations, engineering design services, fencing contracts, and board resignations. A scrivener's error in Resolution No. 113-2025 was corrected (expenditure amount changed to $1,583,441.36). Public Comments & Testimony - Government Campus Redevelopment (Item 10A): Over 30 residents spoke during the public hearing, with the vast majority expressing opposition to the proposed public-private partnership that would redevelop the city's downtown campus (including Memorial Park). Speakers cited concerns about loss of parkland, increased traffic, density, lack of public trust, and the need for a public referendum. Many referenced the 1947 dedication of Memorial Park as a war memorial. A few speakers supported the project, citing the need for updated facilities and potential revenue. John Perlman, founder of Save Boca, delivered a box containing 5,200 signatures for a petition to protect public land. Several speakers also raised questions about the developer's involvement in the Surfside condominium collapse settlement. The council listened to all comments; no vote was taken on the project. - Other Public Comments: One speaker addressed the proposed DDRI amendment (Ordinance 5735), arguing against it. One speaker raised concerns about the Boca Raton development (CIMD project) during public requests. Discussion Items - Presentation from State Senator Tina Polsky: Senator Polsky announced a $1 million state appropriation for the Spanish River Boulevard grade separation of the El Rio Trail, leveraging state investments to improve safety and connectivity. - Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity: Deputy City Manager Andy Lucsik and Rob Frisbee (Terra Frisbee Group) presented an updated plan, emphasizing financial projections ($3 billion in revenue over 99 years, $330–$350 million net present value), infrastructure upgrades, new parks, recreational amenities, and pedestrian-friendly design. The presentation included details on road grids, traffic calming, green spaces, and relocation of tennis, softball, and skate park facilities. Council members Thompson, Nachlas, Drucker, Wigder, and Singer each made lengthy remarks. Councilmember Thompson reiterated his long-standing opposition and called for a six-month delay or termination of the project. Other council members stated they were still deliberating and had not made a final decision. The mayor noted that the process is ongoing and that no vote was scheduled for that night. - Quasi-Judicial Hearings – Briskel Pointe (Items 11A1-6): The council held combined public hearings for a future land use amendment, rezoning, plat approval, site plan, and two right-of-way abandonments for a 20-unit residential development at 6800 North Federal Highway. Staff and the applicant presented. No public comment was offered. The council approved all six items unanimously (5-0). - Regular Public Hearings: Ordinance 5735 (amending the Downtown DDRI to allow up to 90% reduction of office allocation in subareas D and G) was approved 5-0 after public comment. Ordinance 5738 (third budget amendment for bond refunding) was approved 5-0. - Quasi-Judicial Appeal – Sign Plan (Resolution 114-2025): The council heard an appeal of the Community Appearance Board's denial of a master sign plan for Congress Corporate Plaza I. The appellant argued that the board's requirement for individual tenant sign details was contrary to the code's intent. Staff recommended reversal. The council voted 5-0 to grant the appeal and approved the master sign plan, and directed staff to consider clarifying the code to allow applicants to request a decision after two postponements. Key Outcomes - Government Campus Project: No action taken; the council will continue discussions and public outreach. The mayor indicated that the timeline may slip if more public input is needed. - Briskel Pointe Developments: All six related ordinances and resolutions approved (5-0). - DDRI Amendment (Ordinance 5735): Approved (5-0), allowing office allocation reductions in subareas D and G. - Budget Amendment (Ordinance 5738): Approved (5-0). - Sign Plan Appeal (Resolution 114-2025): Granted (5-0), reversing the CAB denial. - Introduction of Ordinances: Nine ordinances were introduced (Nos. 5741–5749) covering height increases, low-income housing, waste franchise agreements, historic designation, downtown plan updates, and a telecommunications easement sale. These will be considered at future meetings.

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop on August 25, 2025, beginning at 2:07 PM (local time) and adjourning at 4:18 PM. The meeting included a centennial update, board interviews, and extensive discussion of the proposed Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership. No formal votes were taken; board appointments are scheduled for the regular council meeting on August 26, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - John Pearlman (498 Northeast A Street) opposed the government campus project, calling it a "sham" and asserting that the city has $677 million in reserves and does not need a private partner. He also noted that the developer partner (Terra) was sued in connection with the Surfside collapse, a fact he claimed was not disclosed in the initial proposal. - Judy Morrow (1305 Northeast Fifth Avenue) advocated for keeping tennis courts in their current downtown location and increasing their number. She referenced a radio interview with councilmember Scott Singer and urged the council to preserve and expand tennis facilities. - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Avenue) criticized the lack of community engagement, questioned the role of CBRE as a consultant, and argued that the project amounts to "bulldozing" parks. He also stated that the city's Development Services Director had never appeared to discuss the government campus. Discussion Items - Centennial Update: Staff (Anne Marie Connolly and Amy DeNorcio) presented an overview of centennial activities, including the Weezer concert (attended by about 10,000 people), the Ode to Boca program (over 1,000 submissions), public art installations, and the Wildflower Park Legacy Project (target unveiling December 6). Councilmembers expressed strong appreciation for the programming. - Board Interviews: The council interviewed applicants for the Historic Preservation Board (Benjamin Trier and John Pearlman), the Permitting and Construction Review Board (Michael Reimer, a structural engineer), and the Sustainability Advisory Board (no applicant present). Appointments will be made on August 26. - Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership: Deputy City Manager Andy Lucasek and Rob Frisbee (Frisbee Group) presented updated plans. Key points: - The campus redevelopment aims to address aging infrastructure (City Hall and Community Center built in the 1960s), improve connectivity, and generate revenue. - Financial projections: over $3 billion in revenue over the 99-year lease, with a net present value of $330–350 million. The project is expected to be cash-flow negative for about five years initially. - Off-site recreation enhancements include a new 10-court tennis center at Meadows Park, a quad softball facility at Sugarsand Park (with restrooms, concessions, scoreboards), and a 55,000–60,000 sq ft skate park/pump track in partnership with the Beach and Park District. - On-site plans feature a large multi-purpose green space (300 ft x 200 ft), a new playground in the southwest corner, relocation of basketball courts adjacent to the community center, and street network improvements (protected bike lanes, angled parking, traffic circles). - Councilmember Mackles advocated for six tennis courts downtown instead of two; Councilmember Thompson expressed concern that additional courts would reduce the green space. Mr. Frisbee agreed to study multiple scenarios for the September update. - Councilmember Rucker asked for the recreation master plan to inform decisions; staff expects an update in September. - Mr. Brown and Finance Director Zervis clarified that the city's general fund ending balance is projected at $85 million, with only about $35 million available (including $50 million in reserves, half of which is for disasters). The $677 million figure cited by a public commenter includes restricted funds for utilities and other dedicated purposes. - Councilmember Wigder emphasized the importance of community design charrettes and contractual commitments to ensure quality. He also noted that impact fees from the project (water, sewer, land dedication, parks) would be significant and could be directed toward acquiring additional green space. - Memorial Park Clarification: City Manager Brown provided historical research showing that in 1947 the city named the recreational grounds "Memorial Park" and proposed a "War Memorial" building that was never built. A veterans memorial was later dedicated at the cemetery in 1953. The city has consistently used the name Memorial Park for the land. Key Outcomes - Board appointments for the Historic Preservation Board, Permitting and Construction Review Board, and Sustainability Advisory Board will be made at the August 26 regular council meeting. - The Government Campus project will continue with further refinement: an open house in September, Planning and Zoning Board review on September 24, first reading on October 14, and second reading on October 28. - Council directed staff to work with the development team to study options for additional downtown tennis courts and to present a recreation master plan update in September. - City Manager Brown will provide a more detailed report on Memorial Park history at the August 26 meeting. - Councilmember Wigder raised a potential future agenda item regarding building completion timeframes and structural recertification for long-delayed projects.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a regular meeting on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 1:30 PM. The meeting included approval of a resolution to reimburse the city for planning services, a public hearing with comments from two citizens, and a workshop on the CRA's fiscal year 2025-26 budget. The meeting adjourned at 2:03 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Tucker (2609 Northwest 23rd Way) expressed unwavering support for the downtown campus upgrade, stating it is vital to Boca's future and that without it, the city's services and reputation would decline. He urged the CRA to focus on the future and take the project across the finish line. - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Avenue) spoke against the concept of Resolution 2025-06-CRA, arguing that the planning contract with Bill Spikowski is part of a reorganization of the DRI to allow for greater development, including transit-oriented developments (TODs) on private properties. He criticized the city's reliance on consultants and alleged that Development Services had not been involved in the government campus planning. (Staff later clarified that Development Services has been involved.) Resolutions and Regular Public Hearings - Resolution 2025-06-CRA: A resolution authorizing the CRA to reimburse the city $100,000 for planning services under Agreement No. 2025-437 with Bill Spikowski, consistent with the Amended Downtown Plan. The planning services relate to the campus master plan (LDRs) and TOD LDRs. The contract was originally approved in June 2025. After public comment, the resolution was approved unanimously (5-0). Director's Report: CRA Budget Workshop - Stephen Timberlake, Special Projects Manager for the CRA, presented a budget workshop for fiscal year 2025-26. Key points: - Achievements in 2024-25 included completion of Sanborn Square safety barriers, evaluation and expansion of the Boca Connect program, and completion of the Palmetto Park Road connectivity and mobility study. - The CRA's taxable value has a frozen base of $73.8 million, with tax increment currently at $3.1 billion, yielding approximately $26.7 million in tax increment revenue. Total revenue including carryover is about $39 million. - The CRA operates through an interlocal agreement with the city, expiring in 2042. After expiration, tax increment flows back to original taxing jurisdictions; the city retains roughly 40%. - Budget highlights include funding for transit-oriented community redevelopment, Meisner Park improvements, pedestrian connectivity, and new positions (customer service representative, police officer, cultural arts administrator). - Commissioners discussed the CRA's purpose, the expiration date, and the potential for funding homeless services. Commissioner Drucker emphasized the need for a holistic approach to homelessness rather than dismissing it, while Commissioner Singer noted the city's proactive efforts and better-than-average point-in-time counts. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-06-CRA was approved unanimously (5-0). - The CRA budget workshop was presented; no formal vote was taken. The full budget will be brought to a future meeting for approval. - Commissioners expressed intent to continue planning for downtown infrastructure and transit-oriented development, with a focus on ensuring the downtown remains vibrant and economically viable.

The Boca Raton Planning and Zoning Board met on August 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting was chaired by Arnold Sevell. The board approved minutes from July 17, 2025, and then considered five quasi-judicial public hearing items. Decisions included approvals for an AutoZone conditional use, Martin Manor Phase II expansion, Mizner Plaza hotel and sale of city property, a telecommunications easement in Spanish River Park, Camino Square Phase II, and a wall height variance for a residence. The meeting adjourned at 9:43 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of July 17, 2025: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Mizner Plaza / Sale of City Property (Item 5C): Multiple residents of Tower 155 and others spoke in opposition. Concerns included traffic congestion, the alley width (20 feet), parking deficits, structural safety (citing Champlain Towers collapse), and the sale process of city-owned land without an open market. The project representative, Ellie Zacharitis, defended the project, noting a 54-foot separation from Tower 155, underground parking, and a public park. The board also heard from the developer, Armin Batmasian, who urged approval for downtown revitalization. - Camino Square Phase II (Item 5E): One resident, John Perlman, raised objections about the transfer of office equivalent development between subareas, arguing it undermined the downtown plan and that the agenda incorrectly listed subarea G (later corrected by staff). Another speaker, Alexandra Abelo, questioned height increases in downtown. - Spanish River Park Easement (Item 5D): Kenneth Curator (San Remo Club) inquired about the easement's impact on green space and potential noise/humming. William Swam raised concerns about previous litigation with Telxius and potential violation of a voter referendum. Staff and the applicant responded that all work would be underground and the land would remain green. - Tuttle Residence Variance (Item 6A): One speaker (John Perlman) opposed a 10-foot wall variance, arguing it should apply uniformly and that the neighbor who added fill illegally should bear the cost. The property owner, Monica Tuttle, responded that the wall is needed for privacy given a second-story neighbor window and that both adjacent neighbors support the variance. Discussion Items - AutoZone (Item 5A): Request for conditional use to allow 10,560 sq ft retail in an existing M-2 zoned building. Staff recommended approval with conditions including landscaping and parking improvements (10 to 12 spaces, one ADA). The applicant described a full remodel. No public testimony. Board approved 6-0. - Martin Manor Phase II (Item 5B): Two related items: a Future Land Use Map amendment and a Site Plan resolution to add 105 low-income housing units (total 200 units) in two 3-story buildings, with technical deviation (parking reduction from 393 to 259 spaces) and two setback variances (south setback 28 ft vs 32 ft, east setback 25 ft vs 62 ft). Staff supported. Applicant noted 47 units remain on site, construction underway on Phase I. Board approved both items 6-0. - Mizner Plaza Hotel & Sale of City Property (Item 5C): IDA for a 12-story, 242-room hotel with 34,840 sq ft retail and 152,322 sq ft underground parking. Also an ordinance to sell 0.29 acres city-owned parcel for $2.37 million (after appraisal revision) with credits for park construction and maintenance. Technical deviation to reduce parking from 569 to 372 spaces. Transfer of office equivalent development from subareas D, E, G to B. Board discussed concerns about city land tie-up, extension provisions, and unity of title. Staff noted that the ordinance has a 4-year completion deadline. The IDA was approved 5-1 (McDermott dissenting); the sale ordinance was approved 5-1 (McDermott dissenting). - Spanish River Park Easement (Item 5D): Sale of a 0.493-acre telecommunications easement for $2,684,000 (appraised) to Telxius for underground cables. The easement is in two parts within the park. Staff recommended approval. Board clarified it is an easement sale, not land sale. Approved 6-0. - Camino Square Phase II (Item 5E): IDA amendment to change 37,399 sq ft retail to 394 residential units in two 8-story buildings, plus 8,632 sq ft retail and parking structure. Transfer of 60,255 sq ft office equivalent from subarea A to G (later corrected to subarea D by applicant). Technical deviation for one-foot driveway width reduction. Applicant noted $2 million in voluntary traffic improvements. Board approved 5-1 (Mitchell dissenting). - Tuttle Residence Variance (Item 6A): Variance to allow a wall up to 10 ft along north and south property lines (max 6 ft) due to grade differences from a raised foundation (required after 2022 flood). Neighbors support. Board approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - AutoZone Conditional Use (5A): Approved 6-0. - Martin Manor Phase II – FLUM Amendment (5B.i): Approved 6-0. - Martin Manor Phase II – Site Plan Resolution (5B.ii): Approved 6-0. - Mizner Plaza IDA (5C.i): Approved 5-1 (Ms. McDermott dissenting). - Mizner Plaza Sale of City Property (5C.ii): Approved 5-1 (Ms. McDermott dissenting). - Spanish River Park Easement Sale (5D): Approved 6-0. - Camino Square Phase II IDA Amendment (5E): Approved 5-1 (Mr. Mitchell dissenting). - Tuttle Residence Wall Height Variance (6A): Approved 6-0.

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the Boca Raton City Council convened a special meeting at 8:45 AM (not 8:30 as listed on the agenda) to interview five finalists for the position of City Manager. The council deliberated through five individual interviews, each lasting approximately one hour, and concluded with a unanimous consensus to appoint Mark Sohaney as the next City Manager, subject to contract negotiations. The meeting adjourned at 3:44 PM. Mayor Scott Singer presided. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the allocated time for public requests at the beginning of the meeting. Discussion Items - The council established a standardized set of seven panel questions for all candidates: (1) Why do you want this job? (2) Defining experience preparing for the role. (3) Experience with large-scale infrastructure/redevelopment projects and prioritization. (4) Experience with disaster/crisis recovery. (5) Experience with public safety, including unions. (6) Maintaining world-class services under budget constraints and competitive labor market. (7) Communication style and fostering transparency/trust. - Each candidate gave an opening statement, answered panel questions, and then responded to individual council member follow-ups. - Jorge A. Camejo (Deputy City Manager): Emphasized his deep history with Boca Raton, development experience (e.g., Mizner Park), and leadership style focused on communication and respect. He addressed public safety, homelessness, and the importance of workforce housing. - Mark Sohaney (former Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam commander): Highlighted 37 years of leadership, managing large-scale infrastructure (e.g., $1.2B wastewater plant, $750M water facility), handling a jet fuel contamination crisis, and union negotiations. He stressed a "people first, mission always" philosophy and expressed willingness to relocate to Boca Raton. - Patrick S. Jordan (former Michigan Township Supervisor): Discussed union negotiations (police, fire), public safety crises (officer-involved shootings), and experience with snowstorms/ice storms. He emphasized building relationships and transparency, and acknowledged he had not managed a project the scale of Boca's government campus. - James L. Zervis (Deputy City Manager/CFO): Described his financial acumen (CPA), experience as a county executive managing 8,500 employees, leading COVID-19 response, and negotiating multiple union contracts. He proposed reorganizing to separate CFO and city manager roles, and advocated for maintaining world-class services through prudent budgeting. - Stan Morris (City Manager of Sunny Isles Beach): Noted his local South Florida expertise, work rebuilding a police department (adding 18 officers, drone/facial recognition tech), and experience with hurricane response and utility projects. He asked the council a hypothetical question about millage rates, demonstrating his direct engagement. - During council deliberation, members expressed high regard for all candidates, particularly internal candidates Cameo and Zervis. Council Member Wigder proposed a "dream team" of Sohaney as city manager, with Zervis and Cameo remaining in senior roles. Council Member Thomson ranked Zervis first and Cameo second. Council Member Drucker and others favored Sohaney for his visionary, large-scale project experience. A consensus emerged to appoint Sohaney. Key Outcomes - Appointment Approved: The council voted 5-0 to appoint Mark Sohaney as City Manager, contingent on negotiating a contract. Mayor Singer was designated as contract talks facilitator to work with the City Attorney's office. All final terms must be approved by the full council in a public meeting. - Residency Requirement: The council agreed that Sohaney must maintain a primary residence within five miles of Boca Raton city limits within one year of employment. - Transition: Outgoing City Manager George Brown will remain employed until January 4, 2026, to ensure a smooth transition. The council discussed a possible overlap period where Brown could remain available as a consultant. - Next Steps: The council expects to review a proposed employment agreement by the next regular council meeting on September 9, 2025. The mayor and city attorney will inform the other four candidates of the decision privately after adjournment.

The Planning and Zoning Board of the City of Boca Raton met on July 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included three quasi-judicial public hearings and one regular public hearing. Key actions included approving a landscaping condition revision for North Park, granting a variance for a residence in Willow Greens at Broken Sound, and recommending an amendment to increase the maximum building height in the R-5 zoning district from 85 feet to 100 feet for certain large-scale planned developments. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 5, 2025 – Approved unanimously. - Minutes of June 26, 2025 – Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Parrish (7751 East Country Club Boulevard) spoke during the North Park hearing, inquiring about the formula used to determine the beautification contribution and whether funds are earmarked for specific projects. He asked whether the proposed off-site improvements adequately substitute for the payment. - Michael J. Schneider (5500 Northwest 2nd Ave, condo 3) spoke during the North Park hearing, expressing opposition to a skate park at the park and stating that most neighbors want a golf course. He noted that the original 2022 plan did not mention skateboarding. - Chandra Madulla (5800 Northwest 2nd Ave) spoke during the North Park hearing, stating that residents are unaware of the park's plans and requesting information about whether a skate park, soccer field, or other recreational facilities are coming. Discussion Items 5A. North Park – Landscaping Beautification Condition Revision Staff presented a request from the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Parks District to delete a condition requiring a $95,000 beautification contribution for the 69.49-acre North Park (former Ocean Breeze golf course) at 5800 Northwest 2nd Avenue. The applicant will complete off-site street improvements (sidewalk, street trees along Jeffrey Street, 67th Street, and portions of 2nd Avenue), which staff argued meet the same intent. No physical changes to the park are proposed. The board approved the revision unanimously (5-0). 6A. Ratafia Residence – Variance Request Staff presented a variance request from Allan Ratafia to allow an 8-foot 9-inch side setback instead of the required 10-foot on the north side for a garage addition for golf cart parking at 6095 NW 23rd Avenue (Willow Greens at Broken Sound). The lot is irregularly shaped; the north property line slants south, reducing space. The addition would add six feet to the existing garage with a separate door, matching the front facade. Staff found the variance reasonable due to the unique lot shape and that it meets minimum requirements. The board approved the variance unanimously (5-0), with a condition that the addition's roof line connect seamlessly to the existing garage roof line as approved by the HOA. 7A. R-5 Height Text Amendment Staff and applicant Bonnie Miskel, representing Boca Owner LLC (the owner of the Boca Raton resort), presented an ordinance to increase maximum building height in the R-5 Multifamily Residential zoning district from 85 feet to 100 feet, but only for buildings within a planned development master plan of at least 100 acres. Staff confirmed this would apply only to the Boca Raton property (the only qualifying parcel) and found no inconsistencies with the comprehensive plan. The applicant stated that the Boca Raton resort has had over half a billion dollars in improvements under MSD Foundation (which directs about 90% of revenues to charity), and that future projects would require site plan review. The board approved the amendment for recommendation to the City Council unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - North Park Condition Revision: Approved 5-0. Condition to pay $95,000 beautification contribution is removed; off-site street improvements will be completed in lieu. - Ratafia Residence Variance: Approved 5-0. Variance granted for 8-foot 9-inch side setback (required 10-foot) for a golf cart parking addition, with condition on roof line consistency. - R-5 Height Text Amendment: Approved 5-0 for recommendation to City Council. The amendment increases maximum height to 100 feet for buildings within a planned development master plan of at least 100 acres, effectively applying only to the Boca Raton resort property.